Scott Prince witnessed Benji Marshall’s inaugural NRL coaching victory at Leichhardt Oval, reinforcing his confidence in Marshall’s future success as a coach.
Both Marshall and Prince played pivotal roles in securing the joint-venture’s sole NRL title in 2005 and have since transitioned into coaching roles, with Prince leading Brisbane’s NRLW side and Marshall guiding his beloved Tigers.
During a recent catch-up of the 2005 Tigers team in Sydney, Prince observed Marshall’s team clinch a dominant 32-6 victory over Cronulla, further solidifying his belief in Marshall’s coaching capabilities. Prince noted the positive reception of Marshall’s post-match speech as indicative of the respect and rapport he commands from his players.
“I observed how he delivered his final talk, and I must say, I was deeply impressed by the level of respect the players hold for Benji,” Prince shared with AAP.
“The atmosphere he fosters within the team fills me with excitement for what lies ahead for the Tigers. The players truly believe in his vision and direction. Ultimately, that belief within the team’s confines is paramount for any football club.”
Prince acknowledged that Marshall’s coaching journey won’t be without its challenges, especially given his high-profile status.
“I had a conversation with him, and it’s evident that there’s significant media pressure, especially in Sydney, where scrutiny intensifies after every loss,” Prince explained.
“I don’t quite comprehend why it’s like that, but it seems to be the norm. Nonetheless, as a young coach, Benji is doing his utmost, and I couldn’t be happier for him securing his first win of the season.”
Prince highlighted the team’s resilience and defensive effort, recognizing that while there will be ups and downs, there are promising signs for the Tigers’ future success.
The shutout of the Sharks brought back memories for Prince of the gritty 2005 preliminary final, emphasizing the Tigers’ defensive prowess and their ability to grind out tough wins.
Prince expressed confidence in Marshall’s coaching abilities, citing his experience under pressure as a player and his understanding of media dynamics as valuable assets.
“Benji knows how to alleviate pressure from the players and instill belief and trust in his objectives,” Prince remarked.
“He’s chosen some talented players like Justin Olam and young prospect Lachlan Galvin, demonstrating his faith and strategic acumen as a coach.”
Marshall’s ability to recruit players like three-time premiership-winning Penrith No.6 Jarome Luai for the upcoming season underscores the respect he commands within the NRL player community.
“Let’s face it, the team hasn’t been performing up to par, but for Benji to attract a player of Luai’s caliber to join the club and potentially rebuild it into a top-eight contender is a promising sign for the future,” Prince remarked.
Prince is confident that the coaching philosophy instilled by Tim Sheens, the title-winning coach of the 2005 Tigers, is positively influencing Marshall.
“Tim possesses the ability to think creatively and holistically about the game, simplifying its complexities,” Prince explained.
“He challenges not only Benji and (North Queensland coach) Toddy Payten but everyone he has influenced. I’ve adopted some of Tim’s philosophies, emphasizing the importance of testing the players while leveraging their strengths.
“Tim always emphasized nurturing the players’ and team’s abilities to the point where they’re forced to challenge themselves, and we’re already witnessing that at the Tigers.”
Prince noted Marshall’s alignment with this outlook, evident from captain Api Koroisau down to rising young fullback Jahream Bula.
Additionally, Cowboys coach Payten reunited with his 2005 grand final Tigers teammates last Friday night ahead of his team’s clash with St George Illawarra.
“Benji comprehends the intricacies of the game, the dynamics of the club, and he has a clear vision for what he wants his team to embody,” Payten expressed to AAP.
“I believe he’s receiving the necessary support, and I wish him success, although perhaps not against us.
“And one more thing… I’ve never witnessed Benji fail at anything.”
